LilyPad: A solar powered case for iPad with built-in HDMI and USB

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Apple certified solar-powered iPad case anyone? LilyPad resembles the average iPad case but utilizes “solar ink” technology to continually charge it on the go for up to 12-14 days in typical lighting conditions.

While the main selling point for LilyPad is clearly its solar charging capabilities, the rest of the case sports some pretty impressive specs too. Also included is a built-in iPad-compatible HDMI  output as well as USB Power out for charging other devices such as an iPhone. The case also doubles as a stand (like most iPad cases these days) allowing you to prop up your device at a 15 degree angle for typing, or a “movie stand” position for watching video or reading.

Another interesting feature is the “Whistle Locator”. Simply whistle and the case will respond audibly to help you locate it. Lilypad also comes with a custom carrying bag equipped with a cut-out to allow the case to charge even when tucked away.

Power efficiency isn’t the only environmental concern of LilyPad. The company has used 80% recycled material to create the product, and plan to set their carbon footprint in reverse right from the get-go.

LilyPad has recently reached its funding goal on Kickstarter and has kicked manufacturing into full-tilt with the first shipments expected to land mid-October. You can pre-order by pledging more than $165 now, which the creators promise is cheaper than it will debut for publicly. You’ll also get your hands one sooner that way as the first round of shipments is expected to only cover backers from Kickstarter.

You can rest assured that you will be getting a quality product, as the LilyPad is an Apple certified accessory. The creators explain:

“Apple makes amazing products not only because of their creativity but also because of how meticulous they are.  We took the idea and prototypes to Apple and they liked it enough to certify it.  This was a challenge to say the least (and I mean to say the very least, that took many months) but it is a better product now since we went that extra mile.”